Join Bridget Binsbacher for an engaging and candid conversation on her career journey through the sports events and tourism industry, highlighting the pivotal moments, challenges, and decisions that shaped her path to leadership. From navigating early career transitions to leading complex organizations and major events, Bridget will offer an honest look at what it takes to grow and evolve in this dynamic field.Through personal stories and real-world insights, attendees will gain valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, relationship-building, and seizing opportunity. The session will also include dedicated time for Q&A, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions, seek advice, and engage directly in the conversation. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, you’ll leave with practical takeaways and renewed confidence to navigate your own professional journey.

Meet the Speaker

Bridget Binsbacher

Bridget Binsbacher was appointed the Cactus League’s first Executive Director in 2019, but her involvement in Arizona’s spring training industry has spanned nearly two decades.

Binsbacher served as Executive Director of the Peoria Diamond Club from 2008-2016 while also holding leadership roles with the Cactus League, a non-profit organization that was founded in 1947 and had been run by volunteers for most of its history.

Binsbacher is responsible for executing Cactus League strategic initiatives; maintaining strong relationships with spring training stakeholders, including Major League Baseball, municipalities, Maricopa County, tribal communities, legislators, facility operators and affiliated non-profits; and promoting the Cactus League.

Binsbacher has dedicated the past five years to strengthening the unified voice of the Cactus League and raising awareness of the spring training industry’s impact on Arizona’s economy. She is also working with stakeholders to build support for a facility funding model for Arizona’s spring training facilities.

Her extensive background in financial services and nonprofit leadership paved the way for public service. Elected to the Peoria City Council in 2015, Bridget served two terms as Vice Mayor. Binsbacher has served on various Boards and is currently on the Board of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association. She has been a respected leader in both the public sector and professionally. Bridget has been recognized as 2023 and 2021 AzBusiness Leaders – Top Five Tourism Leaders of Arizona, 2019 AzBusiness Leaders – Most Influential Women in Arizona, and 2016 Arizona Who’s Who – Top Five Women in Business Leaders of Arizona. She is also a 2021 Colangelo Servant Leadership Award recipient and Paul Harris Fellow recipient.

Binsbacher and her husband, Jon, a Fire Battalion Chief, live in Peoria where they enjoy their four children and two grandchildren.